15 SECTION 1 OVERVIEW OF WASCO BERHAD INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2025 Environmental Stewardship Wasco Forest reflects the Group’s long-term commitment to restoring natural ecosystems while contributing to broader environmental stewardship. The initiative focuses on rehabilitating degraded forest land through the planting of native species, enabling the gradual return of biodiversity over time. Located within the Berkelah Forest Reserve in Maran, Pahang, Wasco Forest sits within Malaysia’s Central Forest Spine, an important ecological corridor that connects several forest reserves across Peninsular Malaysia and supports the movement of wildlife between habitats. Since the launch of the initiative in 2021, Wasco has planted 160,000 trees across 100 hectares, using a mix of native species suited to the local hill dipterocarp forest ecosystem. The objective is not simply tree planting, but the gradual restoration of a functioning forest landscape capable of supporting diverse flora and fauna. Thriving Biodiversity In 2025, Wasco commissioned a Rapid Biodiversity Assessment to evaluate the ecological recovery of the site three years after the reforestation programme began. The study documented a growing diversity of flora and fauna within the restored forest area, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians that serve as indicators of improving habitat conditions. Encouragingly, the survey recorded signs of wildlife activity, including species such as Wild Boar, Mainland Leopard Cat, and Malayan Tapir, alongside a range of forest bird species and reptiles. These early observations suggest that the restored forest is beginning to provide the food sources, shelter, and habitat connectivity required to support wildlife. The biodiversity assessment also establishes a scientific baseline that will enable Wasco to monitor ecosystem recovery and biodiversity development in the years ahead. Why it Matters Healthy forest ecosystems play a critical role in supporting biodiversity, strengthening climate resilience, and preserving Malaysia’s natural ecological corridors. 2025 IN FOCUS 1 mil trees (target) 160,000 trees planted (Phase 1) 770 ha secured (100 ha + 670 ha) 87% survival rate
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